Things To Do
in Wilkes-Barre
Wilkes-Barre, located in the Wyoming Valley along the Susquehanna River, blends industrial history with a growing arts and dining scene. The city serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures in the Pocono region while maintaining a compact downtown with historic architecture and brick storefronts. It offers a mix of cultural venues, family-friendly attractions, and accessible riverside spaces for strolling and people-watching.
With a regional identity shaped by its railroad heritage and nearby natural beauty, Wilkes-Barre is a convenient base for exploring northeastern Pennsylvania.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Wilkes-Barre City Hall, an architectural gem with its stunning dome and intricate details. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. Take a stroll around the square, admiring the historical buildings and vibrant community art displays.
Spend the afternoon at the Luzerne County Historical Society, where you can delve into the rich history of the area through exhibits and artifacts. Next, head to the Riverfront Parks, where you can walk along the scenic Susquehanna River, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful surroundings. Consider packing a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of the park's peaceful spots.
As evening approaches, treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant that offers delicious regional cuisine. After your meal, catch a live performance at the F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts, where you can enjoy everything from music to theater. Wind down your day with a stroll along the riverfront, taking in the beautiful sunset views.
Kickstart your day by heading to Frances Slocum State Park, where you can enjoy a hearty breakfast at a nearby diner before hitting the trails. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the various trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes, all surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you immerse yourself in the serene environment.
After a morning of hiking, take a break by having a packed lunch at one of the picnic areas within the park. Spend the afternoon kayaking or canoeing on the peaceful waters of the lake, where you can appreciate the tranquility of the surroundings. Alternatively, try fishing if you're in the mood for some relaxation by the water.
As the sun begins to set, return to Wilkes-Barre and enjoy a casual dinner at a local pub, sampling some craft beers and hearty comfort food. If you're feeling adventurous, consider attending a local trivia night for some fun and friendly competition. Wrap up your evening with a leisurely walk through the city, soaking in the vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Lunch at a mid-range restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or beverage | $3-6 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $120-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Central location for exploring northeastern Pennsylvania
- Access to outdoor recreation and scenic riverfront areas
- Compact downtown with dining, culture, and history
- Smaller city feel compared to major urban centers
- Some attractions require driving to nearby parks or towns
- Limited large-scale entertainment venues within the city itself
Places to Visit in Wilkes-Barre
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic bridge spanning the Susquehanna with expansive river and city skyline views, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
Railyard scenery with vintage locomotives and industrial textures perfect for nostalgic photography.
Brick storefronts, early 20th-century architecture, and pedestrian-friendly streets provide classic urban imagery.
Quiet waterside paths offering reflections and waterfront mood shots, especially during golden hour.
Food in Wilkes-Barre
Wilkes-Barre Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Potato-cheese or farmer’s cheese pierogies, often served with fried onions and sour cream at diners and ethnic eateries.
Must-Try!
A Pennsylvania Dutch dish of cabbage and noodles, commonly found in local diners and comfort-food spots.
Cured pork topped with eggs or served fried for breakfast at many casual breakfast spots.
A soft cake-like cookie with cream filling, a regional sweet treat often found in markets and bakeries.
Classic Eastern European sausage with sauerkraut, a staple at markets and hearty eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls offering locally grown produce, meats, dairy, baked goods, and regional specialties.
Rotating lineup of food trucks around Court and Market Streets with diverse options and quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly greetings and small talk are common. A simple ‘hello’ or ‘good morning’ goes a long way in shops and cafés.
Timelines are flexible in social settings; plan with a relaxed mindset during visits to shops and eateries.
Safety
Tipping in Wilkes-Barre
Ensure a smooth experience
Typically 15-20% for dine-in service; higher for exceptional service. Tip on the pre-tax amount; rounding up at casual spots is common.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always welcome. Some venues may add a service charge for large groups or events.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with budding trees; pack layers for variable rain; outdoor patios begin to reopen.
Warm to hot and humid; thunderstorms are possible; use sunscreen, stay hydrated, enjoy riverfront and outdoor events.
Crisp air and colorful foliage; ideal for long walks and photography along the river and city streets.
Cold with snowfall possible; plan for indoor activities and layer up for outdoor exploration.
Wilkes-Barre at Night
Hiking in Wilkes-Barre
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with wetlands and overlooks, offering modest to moderate hikes within a short drive.
Iconic waterfall trails through dense woodlands; longer hikes and scenic viewpoints about 1–1.5 hours away.
Hilly terrain with valley views; suitable for shorter hikes and viewpoints near the city.
Airports
How to reach Wilkes-Barre by plane.
Regional airport near Avoca/ Scranton; domestic flights and car rental, about 40–60 minutes from downtown Wilkes-Barre.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A substantial portion of residents; many families and retirees.
A growing community contributing to local culture and cuisine.
Diverse neighborhoods with a range of local businesses and community groups.
Active student communities connected to Wilkes University and nearby colleges.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Wilkes University and King's College teams compete in football, basketball, soccer and more, reflecting local college culture.
Ice hockey, basketball and baseball play a role in the community, with events at schools and local arenas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wilkes-Barre.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many diners and cafés offer meat-free options; seek produce-forward dishes and request dairy-free or egg-free substitutions as needed.